With the introduction of the new
third-generation model line, Mercedes is offering the Sprinter with a variety
of gasoline, diesel, and even electric motors. But now it’s experimenting with
another type of powertrain.
Called the Concept Sprinter F-Cell, this
camper-van prototype has been converted to harness the power of hydrogen. Its
electric powertrain produces 200 hp and 350 Nm of torque, backed by three fuel cells holding 4.5 kilograms of hydrogen. So it can travel as far as 300 kilometers before having to top up.
With extra tanks placed under the body,
it could go for 500 kilometers. And it can even be charged like a
conventional EV to add an extra 30 km of range – all without
emitting a single gram of carbon.
Though implemented in the form of a
motorhome, the powertrain concept could just as easily be applied for
commercial vehicles. This isn’t the first time that Mercedes has experimented
with hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion. In Frankfurt last year, it showcased the
GLC F-Cell, and previously offered a similar version of the B-Class.
